Reflexology

A therapy based on the principle that the anatomy of the body is reflected in miniature on reflex zones on the feet, the hands and also the Face By using specific massage and pressures on these regions, healing is both initiated and accelerated in the corresponding area of the body. Reflexology helps restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and encourages healing. The effects are unique to each person. Since reflexology treats the whole person, not just the symptoms of particular problems, most people can benefit from treatment.

What to expect from reflexology treatment

In your first visit a detailed medical history will be taken. You will be lying or sitting with shoes and socks removed. The sensitivity of the feet varies from person to person and I will be able to assess the correct pressure to apply. The touch should not be uncomfortable to even the most sensitive of feet.

Maternity Reflexology

During the pregnancy we might experience some discomfort: from morning sickness to fatigue and later: back pain, swollen legs or ankles… due to the significant changes our body has to deal with. Close to the delivery you might like to have some support to relax, to prepare yourself for the delivery. I feel my experience and knowledge, over the last 25 years, are there for you to feel looked after in confidence and security. The NHS also supports the use of Reflexology in pregnancy (See research below).

Make sure you find a practitioner recognized by an association or body (like IFR: International Federation of Reflexology).

Please Note: Craniosacral Therapy is also a safe and gentle approach which can be used in Pregnancy.

Research

In 2011 a study of 100 overdue women in the maternity unit at Walsall Manor Hospital in Walsall, England, researchers found that “more women went into labour sooner and needing less pain relief than those without reflexology”. The study was carried out by a team of midwives qualified in reflexology.

“The results of their study show that, overall, the length of the first stage of labour was four hours shorter than of those in the control group of women who had not had reflexology and that the second stage of labour, when the woman starts to push, was 21 minutes shorter. They also found that fewer women in the reflexology group needed strong pain relief during labour.”

The research was nominated for a Royal College of Midwives Award for Innovation in Midwifery. Though the researchers acknowledge they had a limited sample, the women in the study expressed having less pain and greater relaxation, making for more ease in their deliveries.